San Rafael, CA – The San Rafael Police Department’s Major Accident Investigations Team (MAIT) is investigating a solo vehicle collision that occurred on Lincoln Avenue just south of Wilson Court.  Unfortunately, the driver, and only occupant of the vehicle, did not survive the collision and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  The collision and subsequent investigation required Lincoln Avenue to be closed in both directions for close to 3 hours.  Lincoln Avenue is now open to traffic, and the investigation into how the collision occurred is ongoing.  

On April 1, 2026, just after 8 AM, SRPD began receiving numerous emergency calls about a solo vehicle that collided with a tree on Lincoln Avenue just south of Wilson Court.  Several witnesses reported that the vehicle was also on fire with a trapped solo occupant.

Police officers and the San Rafael Fire Department were immediately dispatched and arrived on the scene within minutes.

A San Rafael Department of Public Works crew, who happened to be in the area at the time, along with several bystanders, helped extinguish the flames as emergency crews arrived.  SRFD firefighters and paramedics began life-saving measures and worked to remove the driver, the only occupant of the vehicle.  Unfortunately, life-saving measures were unsuccessful, and the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.

SRPD’s Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) is conducting the investigation into how the collision occurred.  Based on preliminary information, it has been learned that the vehicle, a four-door sedan, was traveling northbound on Lincoln Avenue, crossed into the southbound lane, and continued toward the west curb, where it collided with a tree.  Investigators will continue to evaluate witness statements and collect facts and evidence to determine how the collision occurred.  The investigation could take several months to complete.

The Marin County Coroner’s Office also responded to the scene and is responsible for identifying the deceased driver.  The Coroner’s Office will provide an identification once they have completed their notification process, which includes notifying the next of kin. The San Rafael Police Department understands that this is a tragic incident, and we extend our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. 

Anyone with information about this accident is asked to call San Rafael Police at (415) 485-3000. Tips can also be made online at http://www.srpd.org/tips.